U.S. patent application number 12/129029 was filed with the patent office on 2008-12-04 for stationary pedal exerciser with handle.
Invention is credited to Joseph Battiston.
Application Number | 20080300113 12/129029 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40088961 |
Filed Date | 2008-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080300113 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Battiston; Joseph |
December 4, 2008 |
STATIONARY PEDAL EXERCISER WITH HANDLE
Abstract
A pedal exerciser for therapeutic and/or aerobic exercise
including a handle attached to the exerciser frame wherein the
handle is engaged by a user to secure the exerciser in place during
use, to lift or more the exerciser, or to otherwise engage the
upper body of the user. The handle may be adjustable in both the
lateral and vertical directions with respect to a support surface
upon which the exerciser rests. The handle may also pivot to
provide therapeutic or aerobic upper body benefits while a user
pedals the exerciser by foot. Accessories, such as pedometers,
timers, or the like, may be attached to the handle so as to be
accessible to the user during use of the exerciser.
Inventors: |
Battiston; Joseph;
(Sutherland, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Alexander D. Raring;Thomas & Raring, P.C.
536 Granite Avenue
Richmond
VA
23226
US
|
Family ID: |
40088961 |
Appl. No.: |
12/129029 |
Filed: |
May 29, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60941428 |
Jun 1, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/093 20130101;
A63B 2220/17 20130101; A63B 21/4049 20151001; A63B 22/0605
20130101; A63B 22/0694 20130101; A63B 2230/04 20130101; A63B
22/0012 20130101; A63B 2022/0647 20130101; A63B 21/00069 20130101;
A63B 21/012 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/51 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/06 20060101
A63B022/06 |
Claims
1. A stationary pedal exerciser comprising: a frame positioned on a
support surface, the frame including at least a first foot bar and
a second foot bar to provide lateral stability, each foot bar
connected to at least one other foot bar via a frame body member; a
rotatable pedal apparatus connected to the frame, the pedal
apparatus engaged by a user during use of the exerciser; and a
handle connected to the frame, the handle comprising a grip
portion.
2. The exerciser of claim 1, wherein the handle is adjustable in
both a lateral and vertical direction with respect to the support
surface.
3. The exerciser of claim 2, wherein the handle further comprises a
first tube, a second tube, and a third tube; and wherein the first
tube is connected to the body member and comprises a plurality of
spaced and aligned apertures; the third tube comprises a plurality
of spaced and aligned apertures and the grip portion; the second
tube is inserted into and joining the first tube and the third
tube, the second tube including at least one releasable fastening
mechanism to engage at least one of the apertures of the first tube
and at least one of the apertures of the third tube.
4. The exerciser of claim 3, wherein the second tube is not
straight.
5. The exerciser of claim 3, wherein the grip portion of the handle
comprises a horizontally aligned grip.
6. The exerciser of claim 1, wherein the handle is pivotally
attached to the frame.
7. The exerciser of claim 6, wherein the handle is adjustable in
both a lateral and vertical direction with respect to the support
surface.
8. The exerciser of claim 6, wherein a friction knob is operable to
adjust the friction of the pivotal rotation of the handle.
9. The exerciser of claim 1, wherein at least one accessory is
attached to the exerciser, the at least one accessory selected from
the group comprising pedometers, pedal counters, timers, and pulse
counters.
10. The exerciser of claim 1, wherein the body member comprise an
inverted, U-shape with two end portions angled at about 45 degree
angles with respect to the support surface, the end portions joined
by a horizontal portion of the body member.
11. The exerciser of claim 10, wherein the handle is adjustable in
both a lateral and vertical direction with respect to the support
surface.
12. The exerciser of claim 11, wherein the handle further comprises
a first tube, a second tube, and a third tube; and wherein the
first tube is connected to the body member and comprises a
plurality of spaced and aligned apertures; the third tube comprises
a plurality of spaced and aligned apertures and the grip portion;
the second tube is inserted into and joining the first tube and the
third tube, the second tube including at least one releasable
fastening mechanism to engage at least one of the apertures of the
first tube and at least one of the apertures of the third tube.
13. The exerciser of claim 12, wherein the first tube is connected
to an end portion of the body member, the first tube angled at
about a 45 degree angle with respect to the support surface.
14. The exerciser of claim 13, wherein the second tube is not
straight, and wherein the third tube comprises an angle relative to
the support surface that is greater or smaller than the angle of
the first tube relative to the support surface.
15. The exerciser of claim 2, wherein the handle further comprises
a first tube, a second tube; and wherein the first tube is
connected to the body member, the first tube including at least one
releasable fastening mechanism; the second tube comprises a
plurality of spaced and aligned apertures and the grip portion; and
wherein the releasable fastening mechanism engages at least one of
the apertures of the second to adjustably position the second tube
on the first tube.
Description
[0001] This applications claims the benefit of the provisional
application Ser. No. 60/941,428 filed Jun. 1, 2007.
[0002] The present application relates to the field of pedal
exerciser devices. Specifically, the subject apparatus provides a
stationary pedal exerciser having a handle to provide additional
functionality and use for a pedal exerciser user. The additional
handle allows a user to easily transport, hold steady the device
during use, and/or to otherwise engage the upper body of the
user.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Many patients receive significant therapeutic benefits from
the use of stationary pedal exercisers. These pedal exercisers are
a convenient for use and may be easily stored away. Essentially, a
user is reclines in a chair of their choosing. Without having to
mount a piece of exercise equipment, such as a stationary bike, the
exerciser can be placed in front of the user wherein the exerciser
pedals are engaged by the user. The user rotates the pedals via
their feet to receive therapeutic, aerobic or other benefits. The
rotational resistance of the pedals is adjustable to match the
user's abilities or preferences. In some instances, a user will
place the stationary pedal exerciser on a table and rotate the
pedals by hand. This provides an upper-body workout or other
therapeutic benefits.
[0004] While pedal exercisers typically have rubber-tipped supports
to keep the device stationary, these exerciser devices may
accidentally slip on a surface on which it is positioned. This is
especially true when the exerciser is placed on a polished floor.
The pedal exercise must be repositioned so that the user can engage
the device. Unfortunately, many of the users for which these
exercisers are intended are unable to retrieve the exercise on
their own. Limited mobility and flexibility can, therefore, deter a
user from following a prescribed exercise routine.
[0005] Displacement of the exerciser during use is also likely to
happen if the exerciser device is initially positioned slightly
away from a patient/user. The resulting natural tendency is to then
accidentally push away the exerciser from the patient during use.
This is problematic for users, particularly for users or patients
that might already be physically limited. There is a need for a
pedal exerciser that can be more securely held in place during use
or that is more easily repositioned by the user.
[0006] For users who wish to rotate the pedal exerciser by hand,
physical limitations may also prevent them from being able to bend
to pick the exerciser up to place into a position for hand
pedaling. As a result, many patients forgo the user of the
exerciser and do not receive the benefits associated with the use
of the exerciser. This can lead to a declining level of mobility,
flexibility, or overall health. There is a need for a pedal
exercise that is more accessible to patients/users.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for pedal exerciser with
additional structure that addresses the above and other needs
associated with typical pedal exerciser devices. Ideally, the
additional structure and functionality would be adjustable to
accommodate many types of users. In addition, the structure would
more securely position the exerciser during use. It might also
engage a user's upper body. In at least one embodiment, a new pedal
exerciser would provide additional access or ease of portability
relative to traditional exercisers. The subject pedal exerciser
with a handle addresses at least one of these or other needs.
SUMMARY OF THE SUBJECT APPARATUS
[0008] In accordance with the subject apparatus, a pedal exerciser
that includes a handle is provided. In at least one embodiment of
the apparatus, the handle is adjustable so as to be customizable
for a particular user. The adjustability occurs in both the lateral
and vertical directions. The adjustability allows the owner/user of
the exerciser to maximize their comfort of using the exerciser
handle. The adjustability also allows institutional owners
(hospitals, retirement homes, assisted living communities, etc.) to
provide an exerciser that is customizable for more than one
user.
[0009] The stationary pedal exerciser, as disclosed herein,
includes an elevated handle attached to or integral with the
exerciser base. The exerciser further comprises a tubular frame
including at least two tubular support feet and a tubular body
joining the support feet. Each support foot or foot bar has rubber
caps optionally mounted on each end of the foot. The inverted
U-shaped body, which can comprise one or two pieces, is connected
to approximately the middle of each support foot. However, it is
also envisioned that multiple body members could connect the feet
together and that a body member(s) could be connected to various
points along the tubular feet.
[0010] Affixed to the frame, generally at the top of the body
member, which might be an inverted-U shape, is a pedal apparatus.
The pedal apparatus includes a short barrel enclosing one or more
bearing. The bearings carry an axle that is configured between the
opposite pedals. In at least one embodiment, a knob is connected to
the barrel. The knob includes a threaded screw or other adjustable
member that allows the user to adjustably apply, vary or remove the
friction applied to the axle. Therefore, the knob allows the user
to adjust the rotational force necessary to rotate the pedal
apparatus.
[0011] Connected to the body of the frame is an elevated handle. In
at least one embodiment, the elevated handle is directly connected
to one or more of the body members of the frame. The elevated
handle might be positioned at an angle of greater than 30 degrees
relative to the support surface upon which the exerciser rests. The
handle includes a grip portion. Optional grip pads or material can
be placed about the grip for the user's comfort.
[0012] In another embodiment, the handle comprises three components
and a single horizontal grip portion. The three components include
first, second and third tubes. The first tube is connected to a
body member of the frame at approximately a forty-five degree
(45.degree.) angle from the prospective surface upon which the
exerciser will be placed. The first tube is straight and hollow.
Additionally, there are holes in the first tube along the
longitudinal length of the tube. The second tube is also a hollow
tube. The second tube is a male insert into both the first and
third tubes. In the illustrated embodiment, the second tube is
straight. In at least one other embodiment, the second tube is not
straight. Therefore, the second tube can optionally comprise an
angle along the length of the second tube. Further, the second tube
includes a pin and spring construction on each respective end of
the second tube. The third hollow tube has fixed on one end of it a
horizontal grip portion. The other end of the third hollow tube is
a female receiving portion that receives the second tube on the
opposite end of the second tube from the first tube. The third
hollow tube also has holes along its longitudinal length.
[0013] The pin and spring features in the second tube interact with
the openings along the longitudinal length of the first and third
tubes. This allows a user to variably position the grip portion of
the handle. The variability between the first and second tubes and
between the second and third tubes includes some variability in
both the vertical and lateral directions with respect to the user.
Therefore, the user can vary both the height and lateral closeness
to the user of the grip portion of the handle of the pedal
exerciser. In this way, a user may grasp the grip portion of the
handle and hold the pedal exerciser in a fixed position. In other
words, they can keep the pedal exerciser from accidentally moving
away from the user when in use. The handle also provides a
convenient prop for a user to transport and stow away or otherwise
move the pedal exerciser.
[0014] Alternatively, instead of the pin and spring configuration,
other types of friction collars or other releasably fixable
fasteners may be used to allow a patient to variably adjust the
length of the respective components of the handle of the pedal
exerciser. Still further, two or more types of releasable fastening
mechanisms may be employed to redundantly fix the length of the
handle versus the base portion of the pedal exerciser. In at one
embodiment, the first and third tubes are directly but adjustably
mated. For instance, the first tube of this embodiment might be a
hollow tube with at least one of the releasable fastening
mechanisms, such as a pin and spring mechanism. The first tube in
this embodiment is inserted into the female end of the third tube.
The third tube including apertures spaced to engage the releasable
fastening mechanism of the first tube. In this embodiment, the
second tube of the handle is eliminated.
[0015] Other embodiments include a pedal exerciser having a handle
of a single, fixed size or length. In another example, the handle
may be two parts and be variable in length in only one direction.
In a further example, the handle may be curved and bent in multiple
directions. There may be multiple different components of the
handle that increases the variability of position of the grip
component of the handle. Still further, the grip component of the
handle may simply be the end portion of the vertical tubes that
make up the handle. In other words, it is not required that the
handle have a horizontal grip portion.
[0016] In another embodiment, the handle portion of the exerciser
may be inserted or mounted in the tube of the body portion of the
frame. Alternatively, the handle may be fixed to one of the foot
portions of the frame. Alternatively, it may be simply fixed or
attached to top of the body portion of the frame.
[0017] In a still further embodiment, the handle component may be
pivotally attached to the frame. This pivotal attachment allows a
user to variably fix the angle of the handle with respect to the
user. In another example, the handle may be pivotally attached to
the frame to allow a user to add arm movement to the exercise
options of a pedal exerciser. This embodiment may have a knob or
other friction modifier whereby a user can adjust the friction of
the pivotal rotation of the handle.
[0018] It is also envisioned that pedometers, pedal counters, or
other devices may be attached to the exerciser to track the use or
condition of the exerciser or patient. Therefore, timers, pulse
counters, or the like could be associated with the exerciser.
[0019] In summary, a pedal exerciser in accordance with the present
invention efficiently addresses at least one of the problems
associated with prior art pedal exercisers. The use of additional
structure to steady the exerciser and to provide additional
portability and ease of use for patients will encourage use of the
device compared to traditional stationary pedal exercisers lacking
the new and unique structure. The subject exerciser is easier to
use, more stable, more portable, and otherwise improves upon the
traditional pedal exercisers. The foregoing and additional features
and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to
those of skill in the art from the following detailed description
of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the subject pedal
exerciser wherein the exerciser comprises an adjustable handle
consisting of three tubular members and a grip portion;
[0021] FIG. 2 presents a side view thereof.
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the
subject pedal exerciser wherein the handle includes a bent or
angled tubular member;
[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the
subject pedal exerciser wherein the handle is pivotally attached to
the exerciser frame; and
[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the subject pedal
exerciser wherein an accessory is attached to the handle of the
exerciser.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE APPARATUS
[0025] Turning now to a more detailed description of the present
invention, there is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 a preferred
embodiment of a stationary pedal exerciser 10. A stationary pedal
exerciser does not include a seat or any support for a user's body.
A user positions the exerciser so as to be accessible to a user's
hands or feet. Therapeutic or aerobic benefits are gained from
rotating the pedals of the exerciser by hand or foot. The lack of
structure to support a user means the exerciser is a relatively
small piece of equipment that can be stored under a bed or in a
closet. Such exercisers are useful in physical therapy and are
popular for the elderly, people with arthritis, the obese, and the
like.
[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, exerciser 10 includes a
handle 30 that has an adjustable length in two places to better
allow a user to position the exerciser to the location and setup
required by the user. However, other embodiments of the handle are
envisioned, as discussed below. The exerciser 10, due to handle 30,
is more customizable, more portable, and otherwise more functional
relative to traditional exercisers without handle 30.
[0027] As illustrated, a frame 12 includes the following frame
members: a first foot bar 14, a second foot bar 16, and a body
member 18. Body member 18 connects first foot bar 14 to second foot
bar 16. Member 18 can be joined to the respective bars 14, 16 via
welding and/or known fasteners or fastening means. There can be
more than one body member 18. In addition, body member 18 may
comprise more than one tube.
[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, body member 18 is
substantially an inverted, U-shape in that each end of member 18
comprise end portions angled at about 45 degree angles from the
respective foot bar towards the other foot bar and relative to a
support wherein the end portions are joined by a horizontal
portion. Body member 18 is joined to the respective foot bars 14,
16 substantially in the middle of each of the respective foot bars.
As illustrated, body member 18 comprises two tubular members joined
together by a pedal apparatus, as described further below. Overall,
frame 12 provides lateral stability.
[0029] A plurality of foot caps 20 comprise rubber members inserted
over and enclosing the end of foot bars 14, 16. Caps 20 comprise
cylindrical apertures sized and dimensioned to frictionally receive
the respective ends of foot bars 14, 16. The outer dimensions of
caps 20 are substantially cylindrical. Caps 20, as illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 2, further comprise a lower flat face to sit flush
against a planar support surface. Caps 20 are illustrated in cross
section in FIG. 2. Due to force applied from the user, frame 12
still tends to move away from a user during use.
[0030] Affixed to frame 12, generally at the top of the inverted-U
body member 18, is a pedal apparatus 22. Pedal apparatus 22
includes pedals 23, as known in the field of stationary pedal
exercisers. Basically, pedal apparatus 22 includes a short barrel
24 enclosing a bearing(s) 26. Bearing(s) 26 carry an axle that is
configured between and the opposing pedals 23. Bearing(s) 26 allow
the axle to rotate within barrel 24.
[0031] Apparatus 22 is secured to member 18 via a pair of plates
positioned about the tubular member 18. In the illustrated
embodiment, the plates join the respective ends of the two-piece
body member 18. Body member 18 could also comprise a single, bent
tube. In addition, in another embodiment, the plates of apparatus
22 are replaced by a tubular mount. The tubular mount could be
placed onto a one-piece body member prior to bending the end
portions. In another embodiment, the ends of a multi-piece body
member 18 would be inserted into the tubular mount. The mount would
secure the body member together. Fasteners would secure the mount
in place on the body member or body member pieces.
[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the plates are secured to
each other via fasteners. The fasteners pass through the horizontal
portion of inverted, U-shaped member 18. Plates or pedal apparatus
22 can be secured to frame 12 by other means commonly known in the
art.
[0033] A resistance knob 28 is connected to barrel 24. The knob
includes a threaded screw that allows the user to adjustably apply,
vary or remove the friction applied to the axle via the threaded
screw. Therefore, knob 28 allows a user to adjust how much
rotational force is necessary to rotate pedals 23 during use.
[0034] Connected to body 18 of frame 12 is the handle 30. The
handle includes, in this embodiment, three elevated tubular
components and a horizontal grip portion. The three tubular
components include first tube 32, second tube 34 and third tube 36.
First tube 32 is connected to body 18 along one end portion of
member 18. For instance, if the horizontal portion of member 18 is
joined to first foot bar 14 and second foot bar 16 via end portions
angled at about 45 degrees (each end portion angled towards the
other end portion) relative to a support surface upon which the
exerciser rests, first tube 32 will also be angled at about 45
degrees (relative to a support surface upon which the exerciser
rests).
[0035] First tube 32 is substantially straight and hollow.
Additionally, there are a plurality of apertures 38 in first tube
32 spaced and aligned along the longitudinal length of the
tube.
[0036] Second tube 34 is also a hollow tube. Second tube 34 is a
male insert into both first tube 32 and third tube 36. In the
illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, second tube 34 is a
straight tube. In at least one other embodiment, tube 34 is not
straight (see FIG. 3). Therefore, tube 34 may include an angle in
the tube along the length of second tube 34. In this embodiment,
third tube 36 will comprise an angle relative to a support surface
that is greater or smaller than the angle of first tube 32 relative
to the support surface.
[0037] Whether second tube 34 is bent or straight, second tube 34
includes a pin and spring assembly 39 on each respective end of the
second tube. Pin and spring construction 39 selectively engages the
apertures of first tube 32 and third tube 36 (as discussed further
below). It is envisioned that other mechanisms besides a pin and
spring assembly might be provided to adjustably position first tube
32 and third tube 36 relative to second tube 34.
[0038] Third tube 36 is a hollow tube and is, preferably, straight.
Third tube 36 is inserted over male/second tube 34. Additionally,
there are a plurality of apertures 40 in third tube 36 spaced and
aligned along the longitudinal length of the tube. These apertures
are selectively engaged by a fastening mechanism, such as pin and
spring assembly 39, provided by second tube 34, as discussed
above.
[0039] Third tube 36 also has fixed on one end of it a horizontal
grip portion 42. The other end of the third hollow tube is a female
receiving portion that receives second tube 34 on the opposite end
of second tube 34 from first tube 32.
[0040] The pin and spring assembly in second tube 34 interact with
the openings along the longitudinal length of first tube 32 and
third tube 36. Basically, a pin for each pin and spring assembly 39
is spring-biased to extend from second tube 34. In use, a user
overcomes the spring bias force in order to depress the pin at
least partially into second tube 34. Second tube 34 is then
positionally adjusted along the length of either first tube 32 or
third tube 36 either by moving second tube 34 or third tube 36.
When the respective pin is aligned with openings 38 or 40, the
spring of the pin and spring assembly 39 biases the pin outwards
and through the aperture in tube 32 or tube 36. This mechanism
secures the respective tubes in place relative to second tube 34
until the user depresses the pin.
[0041] The adjustability of tubes 32, 36 allow a user to variably
position grip portion 42 of handle 30. As seen especially from the
side view in FIG. 2 of subject pedal exerciser 10, handle 30 is
angled in orientation with respect to the surface on which
exerciser 10 will be positioned. Therefore, the variability between
first tube 32 and second tube 34 and between the second tube 34 and
third tube 36 includes some variability in both the vertical and
lateral directions with respect to the user. The user can vary both
the height and lateral closeness to the user of grip portion 42 of
the handle of the pedal exerciser. In this way, a user may grasp
the grip portion of the handle and hold the pedal exerciser in a
fixed position. The user can keep the pedal exerciser from
accidentally moving away from the user when in use.
[0042] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a secondary position for handle 30
in broken lines. The position of the handle will vary based on the
placement of the releasable fastening mechanism 39 of second tube
34 within first tube 32 and third tube 36. Institutional health
care providers (hospitals, retirement homes, etc.) will be able to
customize an exerciser 10 for a plurality of users via the
adjustability of handle 30.
[0043] Handle 30 also provides a convenient structure for a user to
transport and stow away or otherwise move the pedal exerciser. For
instance, if a user wishes to pedal the exerciser by hand, the user
must position the exerciser onto a table or elevated support
surface so as to be accessible for hand engagement of pedals 23.
For the subject exerciser, this can be achieved via handle 30. As
such, handle 30 prevents a user from bending over to retrieve
exerciser 10. Many patients would not have the mobility to retrieve
a traditional exerciser without the handle. Moreover, bending over
often causes elderly or mobility-impaired patients to lose their
balance and fall. In the illustrated embodiment, handle 30 can be
disassembled from frame 12 for storage. Overall, handle 30 provides
a structure to assist a user in the operation, movement, and
storage of exerciser 10.
[0044] Alternatively, instead of the illustrated pin and spring
configuration, other types of friction collars or other releasably
fixable fasteners may be used to allow a patient to variably adjust
the length of the respective components of the handle of the pedal
exerciser. Still further, two or more types of releasable fastening
mechanisms may be employed to redundantly fix the length of the
handle versus the base portion of the pedal exerciser.
[0045] Other embodiments include, for example, a pedal exerciser
having a handle of a single, fixed size or length (see FIG. 4). The
fixed length handle could be secured directly to frame 12 via
welding or other fastening means known in the art. In another
embodiment, the handle may be two parts with adjustability provided
between the two parts. In a further embodiment, the handle may be
curved and bent in multiple directions. There may be multiple
different components of the handle that increases the variability
of position of the grip component of the handle. Still further, the
grip component of the handle may simply be the end portion of the
vertical tubes that make up the handle. In other words, it is not
required that the handle have a horizontal grip portion.
[0046] In another example, handle 30 of exerciser 10 may be
inserted or mounted in frame 12. For example, handle 30 may be
inserted into body member 18 or foot bars 14, 16 of the frame.
Alternatively, it may be fixed or attached to top of the body
portion of the frame.
[0047] In a still further example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the
handle component 30 may be pivotally attached to the frame. This
pivotal attachment, for example by way of second barrel 44 and
second resistance knob 48, allows a user to variably fix the angle
of the handle with respect to the user. The pivot attachment is a
hinge, axle or other rotatable connecting structure that provides a
range of motion. In another embodiment, the handle may be pivotally
attached to the frame to allow a user to add arm movement to the
exercise options of a pedal exerciser. This embodiment could
include a knob 48 (see FIG. 4), or other friction modifier whereby
a user can adjust the friction of the pivotal rotation of the
handle. In this manner, a user could engage their upper body for
additional range of motion therapy or exercise.
[0048] It is also envisioned, as illustrated in FIG. 5, that
accessories such as accessory 50 may be attached to handle 30 or
the grip portion thereof. Traditional pedal exercisers do not have
means to present such accessories to users in a convenient manner
when the user is engaging the pedal exerciser with their feet. The
subject exerciser accessory can include pedometers, counters, or
other devices attached to the exerciser frame or handle in order to
track the use or condition of the exerciser or patient. Therefore,
accessories, such as timers, pulse counters, or the like could be
associated with the exerciser. In at least one embodiment, the
accessory (or accessories) are mounted to the grip portion of the
handle (see FIG. 5) in order to be easily visible and accessible to
a user pedaling the exerciser by foot.
[0049] In summary, a pedal exerciser in accordance with the present
invention efficiently addresses at least one of the problems
associated with prior art pedal exercisers. The use of additional
structure to steady the exerciser and to provide additional
portability and ease of use for patients will encourage use of the
device compared to traditional stationary pedal exercisers lacking
the new and unique structure.
[0050] While the invention has been described with reference to
specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that numerous
variations, modifications and additional embodiments are possible,
and all such variations, modifications, and embodiments are to be
regarded as being within the spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *